Sign Up and Win Two Ways!

When you sign up to receive the MTS email newsletter, you’ll not only get first crack at great new trips, exciting events, and enticing travel specials, but you’ll have a chance to win some pretty cool travel prizes too. Every month we’ll pick a new email subscriber from that month to receive a great prize: a rugged Mountain Hardwear daypack, cool trekking poles from Leki, or...?

Just sign up via the form at left, and we’ll take care of the rest! *Terms and conditions apply. Click here for full terms and conditions

Don't Get Left Behind!

Sign up for our popular E-mail newsletters and win two ways!

When you sign up to receive the MTS email newsletter, you’ll not only get first crack at great new trips, exciting events, and enticing travel specials, but you’ll have a chance to win some pretty cool travel prizes too. Every month we’ll pick a new email subscriber from that month to receive a great prize: a rugged Mountain Hardwear daypack, cool trekking poles from Leki, or...?

Just sign up via the form below, and we’ll take care of the rest! *Terms and conditions apply. Click here for full terms and conditions

Take in breathtaking mountain vistas, including spectacular Mount Salkantay—the highest mountain in the Cordillera and the most sacred peak in Inca mythology

If you love the idea of our challenging multi-day trek to Machu Picchu but want flexibility in terms of dates and pre- and post-trip activities, this is the trip for you. This streamlined adventure, following the Salkantay route, offers the same epic views of sacred Mount Salkantay, the same dramatic but rarely traveled route through the Cordillera Vilcabamba, and the same feeling of accomplishment—all in just 7 days! Cap off each amazing day of hiking with a blissful night in a luxurious mountain lodge. Take in vistas of Machu Picchu other travelers rarely see, and enjoy a full morning of exploration at the legendary sanctuary itself. Join us for an Andean journey you’ll never forget.

We have multiple departures for 2016 and 2017! Please call us for dates and current information on availability.

Plan to arrive in Cusco a day or two ahead of the trek. There will be a pre-trek briefing the night before your trek departure.

We'll pick you up at your hotel this morning at 7am to begin the 3½-hour drive to the Salkantay Lodge in Soraypampa (12,750'), where we’ll spend the evening. Along the way we’ll stop to visit the ancient Inca ruins of Tarawasi in Limatambo. The well-preserved archeological site, built from impeccably polished granite, is believed to have been critically important to Inca culture and religion. We'll then pass through the mountain village of Mollepata for a short break, before winding our way up to Marcoccasa. From here, you can continue on to the lodge with our driver, or acclimate yourself with a four-hour trek to Soraypampa on an old and beautiful route called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path).

From the spectacularly situated valley of Soraypampa, you'll enjoy panoramic views, including an unimpeded view of Mount Salkantay from the lodge. At 20,574 feet, Mount Salkantay is the highest peak in the Cordillera Vilcabamba and is considered by climbers to be one of the most difficult. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure as you adjust to the altitude. After an evening briefing, we'll enjoy aperitifs and a hearty dinner.

(Hiking time: 4 hours — optional)

Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Salkantay Lodge

Day 2: Enjoy Salkantay Lodge and hike to a glacier lake

You can choose to spend the day at your leisure or join us for a morning hike to a glacier lake. Hikers will enjoy a panoramic view of the high Vilcabamba Range, and the more adventurous can take a dip in the cool glacial water of Lake Salkantay. Not only is this hike an excellent way to acclimate, it is a good first immersion into high-mountain trekking.

After lunch back at the lodge, trade your glacial swim for a relaxing soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi. We’ll meet up again in the evening for a briefing on gear and the itinerary for the next four days of trekking.

(Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours — optional)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Salkantay Lodge

Day 3: Trek from Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge

Today our trek to Machu Picchu begins in earnest. After an early morning start, we’ll hike up the Río Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak across from Salkantay. After reaching an altitude of 15,200 feet, we’ll pause a moment in the thin air and take in the views of the surrounding Vilcabamba Range. From there, we’ll descend to Wayra Lodge (12,800') where we can wash away the trail dirt and relax in the Jacuzzi.

(Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Wayra Lodge

Day 4: Head onward to Huayraccmachay Lodge and Collpa Lodge

After a leisurely breakfast at Wayra Lodge, we'll head through an increasingly verdant landscape down to the Collpapampa Valley. The change in scenery is dramatic, from the harsh alpine territory above to pastureland and lush, jungle vegetation below.

On arrival at the next lodge we are met with a Pachamanca-style lunch (subject to availability), where meats and vegetables are cooked underground with hot stones. Our rest spot for the evening, Collpa Lodge, is located on an open promontory at the confluence of three rivers. It sits in this relatively lower region (10,300') in the cloud forest, with orchids and butterflies all around. The outdoor hot tub at this lodge has amazing views of lush green mountains and small, distant towns.

(Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Colpa Lodge

Day 5: Follow lush trails to Lucma Lodge

After an early breakfast we’ll continue downhill through the slightly more populated rural areas of the Santa Teresa River Valley. The lush trail will take us past tropical fruit orchards, coffee plantations, and dazzling wildflowers of all sorts. We’ll rest alongside the river for lunch, and from there it is a short climb to Lucma Lodge (6,600'), hidden away in a wooded tropical enclave. We’ll arrive in time to explore the village and meet some of the locals.

(Hiking time: 6 to 8 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Lucma Lodge

Day 6: Final trek from Lucma to Aguas Calientes

After an early start and a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin the final day of our trek. We’ll head uphill towards Llactapata Pass (8,900'), where we'll get our first glimpse of Machu Picchu off in the distance—a view that few tourists ever get. As an added bonus, we’ll see the recently restored Llactapata Ruins, before enjoying lunch at an observatory with more views of Machu Picchu.

We'll then begin our final descent to the Urubamba River through lush bamboo forests, more orchards and coffee plantations, and diverse mountain terrain. At the end of the trek, we’ll board the train for the scenic, 30-minute ride to the village of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. After checking in to our hotel, you can enjoy the hotel’s spa, or go shopping for alpaca-wool hats, sweaters, and blankets for which the region is well known.

(Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu

We’ll spend the last day of our trip inside Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” After an early breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to the bus station for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu. By arriving early in the morning we have the opportunity to explore the sprawling ruins before the train arrives with day visitors.

Built in the mid-15th century, Machu Picchu was a sanctuary or retreat for Inca royalty. The landscape here is stunning, with orchids on the ground and a massive cliff face known as Huayna Picchu towering overhead. Our knowledgeable guides will help us understand the significance of the many temples, sanctuaries, and parks found here during a two-hour guided tour. You will then have about four additional hours to explore on your own.

We’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, and then take the four-hour train ride to Cusco. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel (please note that pre- and post-trip accommodations are not included in the Land cost). Alternatively, we recommend spending an extra night at Machu Picchu. Even though you have enough time to see the core of Machu Picchu during the regular itinerary, most visitors realize that they would have liked to stay longer since there is so much to explore!

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo and prefer single accommodations, the listed Single Supplement applies. If you’re traveling solo but wish to share accommodations with another traveler, we’ll try our best to find you a roommate (same gender only). If no roommate can be found, you will be charged 50% of the single supplement.

After crossing a high mountain pass and leaving the snow peaks behind, we arrive at Colpa Lodge. Set on a hillside across the river from a local village, the abobe-built lodge has impressive views of green hills and rolling fields.The lodges has six guestrooms, large public areas that open onto lawns, and a relaxing Jacuzzi. The decor in this lodge celebrates the arts and music of Peru, with colorful hats and instruments hanging on the walls. An orchid garden is carefully maintained behind the building and a guided tour is offered to the guests. The hill behind the lodge has been made into a private reserve to protect the spectacled bear.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel — Aguas Calientes

A village in its own right, Inkaterra Machu Picchu comprises 83 whitewashed casitas dotted across 12 exquisite acres of private cloud forest. Its terraced hills, stone pathways, waterfalls, and lush gardens—home to 372 orchid species and hundreds of exotic birds, among other beautiful flora and fauna—offer guests calming exploration and secluded relaxation. Inside, the individual casitas are rustically elegant sanctuaries for rest, with inviting beds, a dining area for two, and Andean slippers crafted from recycled materials. For still further nurturing, Unu Spa blends classic and mystical Andean approaches to healing. And diners in the first-class restaurant can indulge in Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist while admiring views over the Vilcanota River. Just steps from the Agua Calientes train station, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is a luxurious stopover en route from Cusco or Urubamba to the legendary Inca Trail and mystical citadel of Machu Picchu.

Lucma Lodge

Built at the head of the Inca trail, this elegant lodge sits amid avocado and coffee orchards within the archeological reserve and blends in with the beauty of the landscape. Welcoming staff attends to your every need and there are six comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. The walls of windows in the sitting area and dining room open the space to the grandeur of the rainforest's natural surroundings. Hear tales from the land of Incan legends in the large circular living room, or unwind in the Jacuzzi.

Salkantay Lodge

Nestled in the Andean valley of Soraypampa, at 12,690 feet, Salkantay Lodge is designed as a harmonious blend of nature and comfort. The bold, thatched-roofed, adobe lodge stands at the foot of high cliffs, where condors soar, and is uniquely positioned to provide a welcoming setting for those acclimatizing to the altitude. All guestrooms and living space are oriented to the dramatic views of Mount Salkantay—just step outside and you'll find yourself in front of two massive snow-capped peaks, among the most sacred to the Incas. The lodge has 12 guest rooms with private facilities, an expansive living room area and bar, as well as a separate dining room. Enjoy admiring mountain views from the large outside Jacuzzi outside, be pampered in the massage room, and star gaze around the fire pit at night. The lodge's decor is based on a red hue, which is the color of royalty and reflects the sacred power of the mountains.

Wayra Lodge

This charming lodge hovers on a secluded windy stretch of valley, beneath the peaks of Pico Soray and Humantay, at 12,812 feet. The stone and thatch structure, in characteristic Andean style, houses six comfortable, elegant guestrooms managed with care by the owners, a local family. Its name, Wayra, means place of the winds and the lodge is decorated with images of sacred pilgrimages to the nearby mountains. Feast on Peruvian fare cooked in the kitchen's impressive wood oven and enjoy candlelit dinners at night. Take a welcome dip in the courtyard Jacuzzi, and admire views of the mountains and cloud forest. This lodge has the feeling of a private mountain home, a safe refuge from weather and rough terrain. When you walk outside, you'll see alpacas roaming the hills, as well as a variety of birds like Andean geese and gulls, ibis, and condors.

"An extraordinary trip, in beautiful, remote areas, with wonderful accommodations and top quality international level cuisine, but with distinctively Peruvian flavor. Trip also included much reference to Quechua culture, including meeting Quechuan religious persons. Unforgettable, will remember all my life." Anthony Fainberg

"We had a wonderful journey with MTS and Mountain Lodges of Peru. This is a luxurious way to hike among Andes and enjoy historic ruins of Machuu Pichhu. Every little minute things were taken care of by our guides and personal chef who cater to your needs everyday. I would highly recommend MTS to anyone, and looking forward to further adventures with them." A. Khullar

"This was an awesome trip and exceeded all of my expectations!" Greg Smith

Experience a challenging high-altitude trek, but with the welcome creature comforts of mountain lodges at the end of every day

Take in breathtaking mountain vistas, including spectacular Mount Salkantay—the highest mountain in the Cordillera and the most sacred peak in Inca mythology

If you love the idea of our challenging multi-day trek to Machu Picchu but want flexibility in terms of dates and pre- and post-trip activities, this is the trip for you. This streamlined adventure, following the Salkantay route, offers the same epic views of sacred Mount Salkantay, the same dramatic but rarely traveled route through the Cordillera Vilcabamba, and the same feeling of accomplishment—all in just 7 days! Cap off each amazing day of hiking with a blissful night in a luxurious mountain lodge. Take in vistas of Machu Picchu other travelers rarely see, and enjoy a full morning of exploration at the legendary sanctuary itself. Join us for an Andean journey you’ll never forget.

We have multiple departures for 2016 and 2017! Please call us for dates and current information on availability.

reviews

"An extraordinary trip, in beautiful, remote areas, with wonderful accommodations and top quality international level cuisine, but with distinctively Peruvian flavor. Trip also included much reference to Quechua culture, including meeting Quechuan religious persons. Unforgettable, will remember all my life." Anthony Fainberg

"We had a wonderful journey with MTS and Mountain Lodges of Peru. This is a luxurious way to hike among Andes and enjoy historic ruins of Machuu Pichhu. Every little minute things were taken care of by our guides and personal chef who cater to your needs everyday. I would highly recommend MTS to anyone, and looking forward to further adventures with them." A. Khullar

"This was an awesome trip and exceeded all of my expectations!" Greg Smith

DAILY itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Salkantay Lodge and explore Soraypampa

Plan to arrive in Cusco a day or two ahead of the trek. There will be a pre-trek briefing the night before your trek departure.

We'll pick you up at your hotel this morning at 7am to begin the 3½-hour drive to the Salkantay Lodge in Soraypampa (12,750'), where we’ll spend the evening. Along the way we’ll stop to visit the ancient Inca ruins of Tarawasi in Limatambo. The well-preserved archeological site, built from impeccably polished granite, is believed to have been critically important to Inca culture and religion. We'll then pass through the mountain village of Mollepata for a short break, before winding our way up to Marcoccasa. From here, you can continue on to the lodge with our driver, or acclimate yourself with a four-hour trek to Soraypampa on an old and beautiful route called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path).

From the spectacularly situated valley of Soraypampa, you'll enjoy panoramic views, including an unimpeded view of Mount Salkantay from the lodge. At 20,574 feet, Mount Salkantay is the highest peak in the Cordillera Vilcabamba and is considered by climbers to be one of the most difficult. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure as you adjust to the altitude. After an evening briefing, we'll enjoy aperitifs and a hearty dinner.

(Hiking time: 4 hours — optional)

Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Salkantay Lodge

Day 2: Enjoy Salkantay Lodge and hike to a glacier lake

You can choose to spend the day at your leisure or join us for a morning hike to a glacier lake. Hikers will enjoy a panoramic view of the high Vilcabamba Range, and the more adventurous can take a dip in the cool glacial water of Lake Salkantay. Not only is this hike an excellent way to acclimate, it is a good first immersion into high-mountain trekking.

After lunch back at the lodge, trade your glacial swim for a relaxing soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi. We’ll meet up again in the evening for a briefing on gear and the itinerary for the next four days of trekking.

(Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours — optional)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Salkantay Lodge

Day 3: Trek from Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge

Today our trek to Machu Picchu begins in earnest. After an early morning start, we’ll hike up the Río Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak across from Salkantay. After reaching an altitude of 15,200 feet, we’ll pause a moment in the thin air and take in the views of the surrounding Vilcabamba Range. From there, we’ll descend to Wayra Lodge (12,800') where we can wash away the trail dirt and relax in the Jacuzzi.

(Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Wayra Lodge

Day 4: Head onward to Huayraccmachay Lodge and Collpa Lodge

After a leisurely breakfast at Wayra Lodge, we'll head through an increasingly verdant landscape down to the Collpapampa Valley. The change in scenery is dramatic, from the harsh alpine territory above to pastureland and lush, jungle vegetation below.

On arrival at the next lodge we are met with a Pachamanca-style lunch (subject to availability), where meats and vegetables are cooked underground with hot stones. Our rest spot for the evening, Collpa Lodge, is located on an open promontory at the confluence of three rivers. It sits in this relatively lower region (10,300') in the cloud forest, with orchids and butterflies all around. The outdoor hot tub at this lodge has amazing views of lush green mountains and small, distant towns.

(Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Colpa Lodge

Day 5: Follow lush trails to Lucma Lodge

After an early breakfast we’ll continue downhill through the slightly more populated rural areas of the Santa Teresa River Valley. The lush trail will take us past tropical fruit orchards, coffee plantations, and dazzling wildflowers of all sorts. We’ll rest alongside the river for lunch, and from there it is a short climb to Lucma Lodge (6,600'), hidden away in a wooded tropical enclave. We’ll arrive in time to explore the village and meet some of the locals.

(Hiking time: 6 to 8 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Lucma Lodge

Day 6: Final trek from Lucma to Aguas Calientes

After an early start and a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin the final day of our trek. We’ll head uphill towards Llactapata Pass (8,900'), where we'll get our first glimpse of Machu Picchu off in the distance—a view that few tourists ever get. As an added bonus, we’ll see the recently restored Llactapata Ruins, before enjoying lunch at an observatory with more views of Machu Picchu.

We'll then begin our final descent to the Urubamba River through lush bamboo forests, more orchards and coffee plantations, and diverse mountain terrain. At the end of the trek, we’ll board the train for the scenic, 30-minute ride to the village of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. After checking in to our hotel, you can enjoy the hotel’s spa, or go shopping for alpaca-wool hats, sweaters, and blankets for which the region is well known.

(Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours)

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu

We’ll spend the last day of our trip inside Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” After an early breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to the bus station for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu. By arriving early in the morning we have the opportunity to explore the sprawling ruins before the train arrives with day visitors.

Built in the mid-15th century, Machu Picchu was a sanctuary or retreat for Inca royalty. The landscape here is stunning, with orchids on the ground and a massive cliff face known as Huayna Picchu towering overhead. Our knowledgeable guides will help us understand the significance of the many temples, sanctuaries, and parks found here during a two-hour guided tour. You will then have about four additional hours to explore on your own.

We’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, and then take the four-hour train ride to Cusco. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel (please note that pre- and post-trip accommodations are not included in the Land cost). Alternatively, we recommend spending an extra night at Machu Picchu. Even though you have enough time to see the core of Machu Picchu during the regular itinerary, most visitors realize that they would have liked to stay longer since there is so much to explore!

Breakfast/Lunch

lodgings

Colpa Lodge

After crossing a high mountain pass and leaving the snow peaks behind, we arrive at Colpa Lodge. Set on a hillside across the river from a local village, the abobe-built lodge has impressive views of green hills and rolling fields.The lodges has six guestrooms, large public areas that open onto lawns, and a relaxing Jacuzzi. The decor in this lodge celebrates the arts and music of Peru, with colorful hats and instruments hanging on the walls. An orchid garden is carefully maintained behind the building and a guided tour is offered to the guests. The hill behind the lodge has been made into a private reserve to protect the spectacled bear.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel — Aguas Calientes

A village in its own right, Inkaterra Machu Picchu comprises 83 whitewashed casitas dotted across 12 exquisite acres of private cloud forest. Its terraced hills, stone pathways, waterfalls, and lush gardens—home to 372 orchid species and hundreds of exotic birds, among other beautiful flora and fauna—offer guests calming exploration and secluded relaxation. Inside, the individual casitas are rustically elegant sanctuaries for rest, with inviting beds, a dining area for two, and Andean slippers crafted from recycled materials. For still further nurturing, Unu Spa blends classic and mystical Andean approaches to healing. And diners in the first-class restaurant can indulge in Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist while admiring views over the Vilcanota River. Just steps from the Agua Calientes train station, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is a luxurious stopover en route from Cusco or Urubamba to the legendary Inca Trail and mystical citadel of Machu Picchu.

Lucma Lodge

Built at the head of the Inca trail, this elegant lodge sits amid avocado and coffee orchards within the archeological reserve and blends in with the beauty of the landscape. Welcoming staff attends to your every need and there are six comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. The walls of windows in the sitting area and dining room open the space to the grandeur of the rainforest's natural surroundings. Hear tales from the land of Incan legends in the large circular living room, or unwind in the Jacuzzi.

Salkantay Lodge

Nestled in the Andean valley of Soraypampa, at 12,690 feet, Salkantay Lodge is designed as a harmonious blend of nature and comfort. The bold, thatched-roofed, adobe lodge stands at the foot of high cliffs, where condors soar, and is uniquely positioned to provide a welcoming setting for those acclimatizing to the altitude. All guestrooms and living space are oriented to the dramatic views of Mount Salkantay—just step outside and you'll find yourself in front of two massive snow-capped peaks, among the most sacred to the Incas. The lodge has 12 guest rooms with private facilities, an expansive living room area and bar, as well as a separate dining room. Enjoy admiring mountain views from the large outside Jacuzzi outside, be pampered in the massage room, and star gaze around the fire pit at night. The lodge's decor is based on a red hue, which is the color of royalty and reflects the sacred power of the mountains.

Wayra Lodge

This charming lodge hovers on a secluded windy stretch of valley, beneath the peaks of Pico Soray and Humantay, at 12,812 feet. The stone and thatch structure, in characteristic Andean style, houses six comfortable, elegant guestrooms managed with care by the owners, a local family. Its name, Wayra, means place of the winds and the lodge is decorated with images of sacred pilgrimages to the nearby mountains. Feast on Peruvian fare cooked in the kitchen's impressive wood oven and enjoy candlelit dinners at night. Take a welcome dip in the courtyard Jacuzzi, and admire views of the mountains and cloud forest. This lodge has the feeling of a private mountain home, a safe refuge from weather and rough terrain. When you walk outside, you'll see alpacas roaming the hills, as well as a variety of birds like Andean geese and gulls, ibis, and condors.

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo and prefer single accommodations, the listed Single Supplement applies. If you’re traveling solo but wish to share accommodations with another traveler, we’ll try our best to find you a roommate (same gender only). If no roommate can be found, you will be charged 50% of the single supplement.

Easy

Many activities are optional and involve fairly easy travel. Trips may include short hikes of two to three hours or optional walks at low elevations. Includes less demanding sea kayaking and river rafting trips with Class I-II rapids.

Moderate

More active trips involving hiking over moderate terrain, usually - but not always - with vehicle support and at elevations less than 10,000 feet, or trips with long hiking days, multiple sea kayaking days, wilderness camping, or other invigorating activity. On many trips, you can elect to skip a day's activity, depending on logistics. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips and river rafting trips with Class III rapids.

Strenuous

Hiking and trekking over steeper or more rugged terrain or where elevations may exceed 10,000 feet - often several days in a row. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips (4-5 hours paddling a day) and river rafting trips with Class IV-V rapids.